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Best of Chicago

Ask this member a question. JenC-7 from a former resident that visits frequently
23 Jan 2008
4.0 of 5 stars based on 6 votes
  • Explore locations featured in this Traveler List: Chicago, Schaumburg
  • Category: Best of
  • Traveler type: Culture, Sightseeing, Never been before, Repeat visitors, Sports buffs
  • Appeals to: Couples/romantics, Singles, Budget travellers , Tourists
  • Seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Tags: museums, restaurants, baseball
1. Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois
In my opinion, the BEST place to see a baseball game in the country. It's oldest ballpark in the country after Fenway, and it has loads of atmosphere. The neighborhood surrounding the ball park is lots of fun, there are many bars and restaurants in the area (see also Southport Lanes further down on list).
2. Art Institute of Chicago
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
World famous paintings such as Georges Seurat's "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte-1884" and Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks" are here. The museum also has one of the best collections of Impressionist paintings outside of France. The two lion statues outside the entrance have been here ever since 1893, and during the holiday season they sport wreaths around their necks.
3. Field Museum
Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois
Great natural history museum. Because of it's reputation, it gets many traveling exhibits (such as the King Tut exhibit a year or so ago). It also has many excellent permanent exhibits, such as the Lions of Tsavo. Of course right in the center hall is "Sue", the largest and most complete T-Rex fossil discovered so far.
4. Chicago Architecture Foundation
Chicago Architecture Foundation, Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is known the world over for it's architecture, so a tour is a must. While you can see a lot on foot, I would recommend the boat tour on the Chicago River. Seeing the buildings from the river really gives you a different perspective.
5. Second City
Second City, Chicago, Illinois
This Chicago institution has many famous alumni, among them Mike Myers, John Belushi and Bill Murray... Check out a show at one of the two resident stages. I saw "Between Barack and a Hard Place" at the Mainstage on my last trip to town, and it was hilarious!
6. John Hancock Center / Observatory
John Hancock Center / Observatory, Chicago, Illinois
I think the view is better from here than from the Sears Tower. Go to the 95th floor for a cocktail with the view!
7. Southport Lanes & Billiards
Southport Lanes & Billiards, Chicago, Illinois
Not far from Wrigley, this bar/bowling alley/pool hall is a classic. They have a great beer list and are one of the few places in the country that still have humans setting the pins. If you only have one pin left to get a spare, try sticking a dollar in the ball before you roll it, the pin setter just might help and knock the pin over for you!
8. Frontera Grill & Topolobampo
Frontera Grill & Topolobampo, Chicago, Illinois
If you can only go to one restaurant featuring one of Chicago's famous chefs, I would make it Rick Bayless's Frontera Grill for great Mexican food.
9. Parthenon Restaurant
Parthenon Restaurant, Chicago, Illinois
My favorite restaurant in Greektown. Tons of tradition here, and a great place for dinner if you are going to see a Bulls or Blackhawks game at the United Center
10. Portillo's Hot Dogs
Portillo's Hot Dogs, Schaumburg, Illinois
This local chain is all over town with dozens of locations, so chances are you won't be too far from one. I crave their hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches!
Explore locations featured in this Traveler List: Chicago, Schaumburg